Ovarian cancer symptoms not apparent until later stages

Ovarian cancer symptoms not apparent until later stages • It is the eighth most common cancer in women • Lifestyle changes can help reduce risk New Delhi, 18 September, 2017: Of all cancers in women, ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer and ranks fifth in terms of mortality, according to statistics. About two-thirds of those with this condition stand at an advanced stage of the disease during diagnosis and less than 50% survive longer than five years after being diagnosed. As per the IMA, the primary reason for reaching the advanced stage and eventual death is that in many women with this disease, there are no symptoms. Ovarian cancer refers to any cancerous growth in the ovary. A majority of ovarian cancers arise from the epithelium (outer lining) of the ovary. The most common ovarian cancers are called epithelial ovarian cancers (EOC) and other types include ovarian low malignant potential tumor (OLMPT), germ cell tumors, and sex cord-stromal tumors. Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National President Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement, said, "Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it spreads within the pelvis and stomach. In such an advanced stage, it may not be possible to treat the condition making it life threatening. Often, this condition has no symptoms in the early stages and even at a later stage; there are non-specific symptoms such as loss of appetite and weight loss. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are responsible for most inherited ovarian cancers. When these genes are normal, they help prevent cancer by making proteins that keep cells from growing abnormally. However, inheriting a mutation in one of these genes from either parent, makes this cancer preventing protein less effective. This increases the chances of developing ovarian cancer.” Some possible early symptoms of ovarian cancer include pain in the pelvis, lower side of the body, lower stomach, and back; indigestion or heartburn; feeling full rapidly when eating; more frequent urination; pain during intercourse; and changes in bowel habits. As it progresses, symptoms such as nausea, weight loss, breathlessness, tiredness, and loss of appetite can also appear. Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, said, “The treatment for this condition consists of surgery, chemotherapy, a combination of surgery with chemotherapy, and at times, radiotherapy as well. The mode is decided depending on factors such as type of ovarian cancer, its stage and grade, and the patient’s general health. Contraceptive pills can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in women and also protect them from the disease even 30 years after they stop taking the drugs.” Some other tips that can help prevent the risk of ovarian cancer in women include the following. Breastfeeding The longer a woman breastfeeds, the lower her risk of ovarian and fallopian tube cancer. Pregnancy The more full-term pregnancies a woman has had, the lower her risk of ovarian and fallopian tube cancer. Surgical procedures Women who have had a hysterectomy or a tubal ligation may have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer. Adopting a healthier lifestyle This entails consuming more fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and drinking.

Lifestyle changes and stress can cause premature ovarian failure in women

Lifestyle changes and stress can cause premature ovarian failure in women Although the condition cannot be reversed, certain treatments and lifestyle changes can control associated symptoms and risks New Delhi, 20 August 2017: A recent survey has indicated that about 4% of Indian women experience signs of menopause between 29 and 34 years of age. This is alarming given the fact that most women reach menopause between the age of 45 and 55. As per the IMA, the reason behind this is likely to be Premature Ovarian Failure (POF), some contributing factors for which include changing food habits and work culture with increased stress. POF is a loss of normal function of the ovaries before the age of 40. Women with this condition can have irregular or occasional periods for years and might even become pregnant.However, it is not the same as premature menopause. Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National President Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement, said, "POF results from the loss of eggs (oocytes). The atmosphere today, lifestyle habits, food adulteration as well as consumption of processed food can lead to many changes in a woman’s body. These factors are responsible for the rise in the number of cases of POF in young adults. It is a good idea for women who have missed their period for three months or more to consult a doctor and determine the exact cause. Changes in period cycle may be due to pregnancy, stress, or a change in diet or exercise habits. However, it is best to get evaluated on time.” The symptoms of POF resemble those of a natural menopause and include change in the pattern of periods, hot flashes, mood swings, crying spells, and sleeplessness. A woman can have POF if her FSH level (follicle stimulating hormone) after a blood test is more than 25mIU/L. Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, said, “Although there is no proven treatment for POF, there are other alternatives such as adopting a healthier lifestyle which can help to a certain extent. Certain treatment procedures focus on the problems that arise from estrogen deficiency. Apart from this, assisted reproductive techniques have shown a ray of hope for those with issues such as these.” Some natural treatment methods can be tried to relieve hot flashes. Here are some tips. • Eat soy as it contains phytoestrogens. Some of the best sources of soy are tofu, soy powder, soymilk, and soy nuts. • Exercise, as an active lifestyle can lower the risk of premature menopause. About 30 minutes of aerobic exercise thrice a week is ideal. • Make sure that you get an ample supply of Vitamin D, E, zinc, and magnesium. • Eat foods that are rich in calcium such as cheese, almonds, green leafy vegetables, milk, fortified cereals like corn flakes, and raisin bran.